EDA Learning and Development Portfolio
The Electrical Distributors Association (EDA) discusses with EWM its Learning and Development Portfolio, which has been established to provide members with tools for the development of their staff.
The EDA Learning and Development Portfolio is constantly developed by a Working Group of EDA members (current WG Chairman is Bill Balmer of Stearn) who endeavour to ensure that the programmes provide relevant, up to date training for the industry. These opportunities are available to both members and affiliates of the EDA and provide easy access to two key programmes vocational training and industry specific qualifications.
EDA product knowledge training
The Product Knowledge Programme is provided in partnership with MOL - one of the UK’s largest providers of flexible blended learning.
This programme consists of a series of open learning modules which can be studied either in the workplace or at home, at a pace to suit the learner. The programme has been designed to increase a learner’s product knowledge and is accredited by City & Guilds.
There is approximately 40 hours of learning in each module and a three month period is given for the completion of each module. During this period there is tutor support available from MOL via a dedicated telephone number or a dedicated e-mail address.
Flexibility is key to the programme - Learners can choose to study one module, or complete all of the available titles, and the order of study is set by the learner’s needs.
Titles available are - Fundamentals of Electricity, Cables & Wiring Accessories, Lamps & Lighting, Industrial Products, Switchgear Distribution & Protection, Electrical Heating & Ventilation, Luminaires and two core modules – Health & Safety and Customer Care.
City & Guilds - A City & Guilds unit of accreditation certificate is awarded on the successful completion of each module. A learner completing the two core modules and any three of the remaining titles will be awarded a City & Guilds Certificate in Construction and Electrical Materials Distribution.
Learner Testimonial ‘’The Product Knowledge modules have allowed me to become more confident in my day to day role, more confident in my own ability and has benefited the overall service I can offer to my customers. I would fully recommend the MOL modules to anybody interested.” Callum Bullimore - Senate Electrical, Nottingham April 2010 – winner of the Product Knowledge Category at the 2010 Annual Dinner (see photo of winners)
EDA vocational training
The EDA has a well-established Learning and Development Portfolio, a significant part of which is vocational training and Apprenticeships. In partnership with JHP Training, one of the largest and most successful providers of vocational qualifications, these on-the-job qualifications are setting new industry standards in training and development.
Available to both members and affiliates of the EDA, Apprenticeships are based on occupational standards established by industry experts and combine with English and Maths (Functional Skills) and technical knowledge to make up the full Apprenticeship framework.
Vocational training has proven to improve staff retention, motivate staff, encourage creativity, create a heightened learning culture and gives an employee a better knowledge and understanding of a company’s needs and values.
Each member of staff studying for an Apprenticeship is supported by an assessor from JHP Training. The assessor will meet the member of staff on a regular basis in branch, to observe, check progress and ensure that their learning is progressing in the planned way. The branch manager will also be involved in review meetings to ensure that the Members needs are being met by the Apprenticeship programme.
Vocational qualifications– Business Administration, Customer Service, Distribution Warehousing & Storage together with advanced level qualifications in Team Leading and Management.
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